Types of Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing does more than keep rain out. It helps manage your home's heating and cooling, withstand storms, and flex with seasonal changes without cracking. There are different types of rubber roofing from which you can choose.

In simple terms, they include sheets like Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO), and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), along with rubber shingles, modified bitumen rolls, and liquid rubber coatings. 

Each type protects your roof in its own way, depending on your home's design and your goals for durability and energy savings. Knowing these options will help you choose the right rubber roof to keep your home safe for years to come.

Different Types of Rubber Roofing You Need To Know

Let’s examine the various rubber roofing types so you can choose the one that will keep your home protected.

1. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Rubber Roofing

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a single sheet of rubber that bends with your roof as the weather changes and helps prevent cracks and leaks. It resists sun, rain, and wind. EPDM roofing is usually black, but you can add a white coating. 

Using a white coating helps reflect heat and keeps your home cooler. EPDM is light and simple to install and can last up to 30 to 50 years with care. Keep leaves off your roof, check for tears, and patch them if needed. Taking time to do these occasional checks will help your roof last longer.

2. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Rubber Roofing

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) helps reflect heat from the sun, which can help lower your cooling bills in summer. It is white or light-colored, so it keeps your roof cool. Its seams are heat-welded to seal water out. 

Aside from this, TPO can flex with your home as it moves and does not crack easily.  With proper care, it can last 20 to 30 years. TPO is a solid option if you want a cool, dry home.

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Rubber Roofing

PVC roofing is strong and flexible. It can handle foot traffic if you need to walk on your roof. It can also resist chemicals and fire, which adds safety during storms. The seams of this type of roofing are also heat-welded to seal out water. With regular care, PVC can last 20 to 30 years. Moreover, PVC rubber roofing reflects sunlight and helps lower your cooling costs.

4. Rubber Shingles

Rubber shingles look like classic shingles but add extra protection. They are made from recycled rubber and can look like slate or wood shakes. Since they are light and flexible, they help in bad weather. 

Rubber shingles handle rain and snow well and also help soften storm noise. They add a classic look while keeping your home safe for up to 30 to 50 years.

5. Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen mixes rubber or plastic with asphalt, making it flexible and tough. It is placed in layers to help keep water out. Modified bitumen can handle foot traffic and is hard to tear. If maintained well, this type of roof can last around 20 years. 

Check your roof once a year and clean off leaves and dirt. Regular maintenance will help your roof last longer. Typically, modified bitumen works well on flat roofs and helps protect your home from leaks and weather damage.

6. Liquid Rubber Roofing

Liquid rubber roofing is a coating for your roof that forms a seamless layer that stops water from getting in. It can handle heat, sun, cold, and rain. Liquid rubber is easy to apply and can cover an old roof. 

This effective coating helps extend the life of your roof, making it last 15 to 25 years if you recoat it when needed.  Liquid rubber is a simple way to keep your home dry.

Conclusion

Rubber roofing has several types. Each type helps your home in its own way. EPDM bends with your roof and stops leaks. TPO reflects heat and helps reduce your energy bills. PVC stays strong and keeps water out. Rubber shingles add a classic look while protecting your home. Modified bitumen adds layers that help stop leaks and prevent tears. Liquid rubber forms a seamless layer to keep water out.

To pick the rubber roof that best suits your home, consider your roof, local weather conditions, and budget. If you need help To pick the rubber roof that best suits your home, consider your roof, local weather conditions, and budget. If you need help roofing contractor, reach out to The Roofing and Co. We have roofing specialists who can help you choose and install the best roof for your home. , reach out The Roofing and Co. We have roofing specialists who can help you choose and install the best roof for your home.